I find myself wearing a lot of monochrome outfits. Partly because they are just so easy to style, but also because a lot of the foundational pieces of my wardrobe tend to be based around a similar colour palette and so I inadvertently find myself styling outfits this way. I love the idea of a white monochrome outfit around this spring seasonal shift. The lighter colours somehow seem fitting as the world takes on brightness and warmth after winter. Below are a few suggestions for adding interest so that your monochrome outfit is anything but monotonous.
1. Choose a piece with outfit details:
I feel like monochrome outfits make it easier to go big or go home when it comes to outfit details such as ruffles, statement sleeves, cut out details or a low back. There are fewer busy patterns or colours for these statement details to contend with while adding structure and silhouette to the look. For example, the broderie anglaise and ruffle detailing of the blouse above could be over the top when paired with some outfits, but styled in this way it blends in effortlessly with the other pieces.
2. Textures and fabrics:
Textures and fabrics can be such an effective way to add interest to a monochrome look breaking up what can otherwise be a sea of one colour. Above, I love how the softness of the woollen knit juxtaposes with the structured denim.
3. Experiment with different tones and shades of the same colour:
Another way to add interest is to wear different tones and shades within the same colour palette. Layering different shades and tones within an outfit, for example adding neutral heels to the white denim, white blouse and knit adds contrast while keeping the overall outfits cohesive.
4. Statement accessories
In the past I’ve really underestimated accessories choosing, instead, to focus on the clothes themselves. However, since creating a capsule wardrobe, accessories have become one of my favourite ways to re-style the same pieces in new ways. Monochrome outfits are no exemption and I feel that they lend themselves to a bolder, statement piece although I’m sure a minimalistic, dainty pieces would look just as elegant. Go with whatever feels more your style.
5. Make it mostly monochrome
While you could argue that introducing a pop of colour to an otherwise monochrome outfit doesn’t make it monochrome anymore, the rules of fashion aren’t always meant to be taken literally and monochrome outfits doesn’t have to mean the total absence of all colour, right? I sometime love adding a small pop of colour to an otherwise monochrome outfit (for example, as I have in the second outfit here) particularly when it comes to accessories. I’m also an advocate for adding a pop of colour through makeup (you know how much of a soft spot I have for a red lip).
Shop the Edit
Do you like wearing monochrome outfits? What are your favourite tips and tricks for styling them?
Outfit 1 and 2: Earrings Amelie George Bridal (my wedding earrings but ones I continue to wear regularly), Lace Blouse (thrifted, but similar here and here) White knit (Sportscraft, old but similar here or here), Jeans (Levis 501 cropped jeans), Heels (Country Road, but similar here)
Photos: Mim Maree Photography
